John Adams to Hendrik Bicker, March 1, 1781

Arms of Amsterdam March 1. 1781

Sir

I received your Letter at Leyden, 1 inclosing the Copy I had the Honour to Send you, and thank you, for your candid Judgment of its Extent and Import.

I have now the Honour to inform you, that on my Return to Amsterdam the 25 of Feb. I received a Letter from Congress inclosing another Commission in proper Form, containing full Powers to treat with their High Mightinesses, and to conclude and Sign a Treaty. I received also Authority to acceed to the Principles of the Armed Neutrality. 2

I should now be Still more obliged by your candid Opinion what is the best Course for me to take. 3 I have the Honour to be with great Esteam, sir &c.